Title: Why Jona Niemiec Keeping Bench Seat at Fortuna Düsseldorf Despite Million-Euro Heroics
22-year-old Jona Niemiec steered Fortuna Düsseldorf into the cup quarter-finals, bagging two goals against Magdeburg (2-1), and adding €1.7 million to the club's coffers. His heroics weren't his first, having netted against Schalke and Nuremberg earlier, taking his tally from the bench this season to five. Yet, Niemiec hasn't nailed down a regular spot.
The Niemiec conundrum
Jona Niemiec (22) celebrates after scoring against Schalke (5-3). "I'd love to play from the start, but I'll take every minute I can and be grateful when rewarded."
Niemiec's ambition is clear: He wants to secure a starting berth, preferably for the promotion showdown versus Kiel on Sunday. But despite his impressive form, it's unlikely he'll make the lineup. That's because, according to coach Daniel Thioune, there are 'issues' to be addressed.
Thioune on Niemiec's trials and tribulations:
"Normally, I'd be obliged to reward such contributions. Jona's turned game-changer as a sub in recent matches, but I must focus on the game's best interest. I'm delighted he's in such great form, and we're working on it. Patience is his game - I reckon he's got it, plus great work ethic. It's only a matter of time before his chances come calling again."
Factors hampering Niemiec's rise
- On-field chemistry: Niemiec thrives in spaces, and when Fortuna Düsseldorf plays flat-out football, he seems more at ease. However, his issues lie in blending with the team's pattern play, which relies heavily on combination.
- Sprint power: Thioune has emphasized Niemiec's need for 'sprint repetition ability.' While Jona delivers when he comes on, his short bursts might not sustain a full 90-minute performance.
Fortuna's best - off the bench
Niemiec's heroics and versatility have positioned him as Fortuna Düsseldorf's go-to weapon when they need a jolt of inspiration. So, while he may sit on the bench, Niemiec's unwavering impact from the game's periphery ensures he remains a vital cog in Fortuna's 2. Liga assault.
Read also
- Niemiec's staggering goal tally from the bench this season and his performance against Schalke (5-3) and Nuremberg (5-0) earned the team €1.7 million from the DFB Cup.
- However, despite his meteoric form as a substitute, coach Daniel Thioune sees challenges that might hinder Jona's rise to a permanent starter.
- Thioune emphasizes joint-movement and sprint-power as Jona's primary opponents to overcoming his stronghold on his bench role.
- As the 2023-2024 season swings into gear, many Fortuna-Düsseldorf and 2. Liga fans eagerly await Niemiec's eventual promotion to regular starting spot.
- Sports editors at Regio Sport Düsseldorf and Sport-Lighthouse Essen closely monitor the team's progress, making Niemiec a focus of their sports news and highlights.
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